FARIDA Episode 26 – 28 by Oge’s Stories

FARIDA Episode 26 by Oge’s Stories

Youth service, Farida and Monica were posted to Abuja just as they desired. Monica’s father’s company had a guest house in Abuja so they lived there for the one year mandatory youth service. Farida was posted to Ministry of Budget and Planning while Monica was posted to CBN.

Both girls decided to start their business in Abuja. Monica travelled to buy clothes and accessories. Farida sold out everything in her office. The next month Monica went again. She sold some before she arrived Nigeria, it sold out again. The next time, Farida went with Monica during a long break. They bought much more. It sold again. Monica couldn’t believe how well they were doing. Someone introduced them to a factory where they could buy fashion pieces for sale at a very reduced price. They could order via email and make payment and the goods will be shipped down to them. They sat down together and prepared a business plan. They called their business ‘Sisterz boutique’. They invested all they had into getting a shop and setting up. Armed with the proposal, they went to Monica’s father who agreed to invest in the business in terms of giving them a loan to be repaid in two years. They signed the agreement with them. They registered the business and used the bank to transfer money to the factory. Their goods arrived in two weeks. They set up the boutique. Sales started. They referred all their customers to boutique. After work, they spent at least five hours in the boutique daily and the weekends were spent there. The boutique was time consuming which affected them. They decided to get external help. They hired someone to manage the boutique while they were away. They also went back to the old-fashioned way they sold before. Sales picked up and before long, profit began to flow.

Wale walked into the boutique one Sunday with a lady who was carrying a toddler. He was surprised to see Monica and Farida there. He was impressed when he discovered they owned it. He introduced the lady he was with as his sister who just came in from America. Her sister-in-law’s birthday was that day and she wanted to get her something unique. Farida asked her to buy either a pair of earrings or a waist belt. They were unique and will be appreciated. She went with both of them.

“Let’s hang out sometime soon. I am here managing the filling station. Let me know so we could have a nice time. All work and no pay makes Jack a dull boy”

‘That will be nice. We don’t have a social life here. We just work round the clock” Monica replied.

“Who will run the boutique when we are away?” Farida asked.

“Madam, live life. Guys run after you but you refuse to even acknowledge them. Ok, Wale you know wants to take us out you are complaining. Sunday evening is fine. Pick us from here. Where are you taking us? Let us paint the town red. I haven’t had mad fun since we graduated; everything about Farida is making money”

“She used to be fun. Maybe we can bring out that aspect of her. This is my card, can I have yours? Sunday evening is fine. I will be here by 5pm. Let me run, my sister is waiting in the car”

It was good seeing Wale again. He looked well. Going out with him wasn’t a problem as long as Monica was there. It wasn’t that she didn’t want to go on dates but most of the guys that asked her out were either married or just after something else. The guys on camp were the worse. They came after her like vultures. Some of them were children of wealthy parents but their disregard for the female gender was glaring. The man she wanted shouldn’t see her as a sex toy but as a precious gem. Abuja had so much fake life she couldn’t wait to leave back to Lagos. Monica went on a few dates. She came home after every date. She knew soon she would be serious with someone. Farida dreaded it but knew it was a huge possibility.

The Sunday came around. Monica was on Farida’s case to change her outfit to something befitting. Farida wasn’t putting in any effort to look good which Monica felt was wrong. Monica wore a cream colored long sleeves mini gown which she paired with metallic brown stiletto calf boots. She looked hot. Farida insisted on wearing a pair of jeans and tshirt.

“You want to kill my vibes? Dress well now. If they approach you, you will say no as usual. Or you are scared you will fall for Wale?”

“Fall how? I don’t think of him like that. Not at all”

“But he thinks of you like that. The way he looks at you is as though there is no other person in the room. Farida, this guy likes you. Give him a chance”

“I know him better than you. I am not interested in him. We can remain friends but nothing more”

“But at least dress up so you look good and feel awesome. Farida, what you are wearing is awful. Wear this dress, the shimmery blue will bring out your colour. You can wear these low shoes with them so you don’t dwarf us further. These chandelier earrings will sit well on your oblong face. You will rub eye pencil today. Please now’

“Do I have to? I am comfortable like this”

“You will make me look overdressed. By the way, if I see any guy showing me red light, I will dump your ship and leave with him. Let me just warn you”

‘You will leave me alone with Wale?”

“You don’t have feelings for him so there is nothing to worry about. Go and change”.

When Farida came out, the customers in the shop had to whistle. She looked lovely. The blue dress hugged her figure effortlessly. She had become comfortable wearing clothes that showed her figure because of her line of business. They were never skin tight but her shape was something she just couldn’t hide and the new vogue were focused on figure showing. Three customers picked the dress. Monica’s thoughts went into overdrive. From now on, once the shops were full, Farida would wear one of two dresses to let them see how good they look.

At 5pm, Wale parked in front of the boutique. He had been in thoughts from the moment he left the house. From the Sunday he saw her again until that moment, she had been in his thoughts. Farida was smart. She had made an alliance with a good person and both of them were profiting from it. Imagine running a boutique at such a young age. Farida was still rigid after all these years. Her guard was always up. Was it just for him or for everyone? He would find out if she had a man in her life. If that guy was still in the picture.

He walked into the boutique. His fragrance enveloped the entire place. Farida quickly sprayed on some perfume. His perfume was intoxicating and she didn’t want to go out with him smelling like new clothes. When she came out, Wale was taken aback. The Farida he knew wouldn’t dress like this. This was Monica. Monica stepped out too looking gorgeous. She wore make-up while Farida just had on powder and lip gloss.

“Hello ladies” Wale said to all the ladies in the shop. He had on denim shirt with a pair of jeans. He tucked in the shirt and had on boots. He looked nice. All the ladies stared.

Monica and Farida left with him in his vehicle. Farida wanted to sit at the back but Monica pushed her to the front. They drove to a park where they could have fish and chips. He ordered beer for himself and asked what they would have. Farida asked for natural pineapple juice while Monica asked for stout. They had their drinks with the spicy croaker fish and chips. It was nice.

“So, a place like this exists in Abuja? I thought they had only fancy hotels and restaurants” Farida pointed out.

“Do you prefer fancy restaurants?” Wale asked.

“Not at all. This is cool. Natural air and lovely ambience. I like it”

“I’m glad you do. So, what has been happening? How is service?”

They began to talk about their places of primary assignment. Wale had been posted to a primary school to teach just as he wanted so he could spend time at the filling station. So, he paid a graduate without a job to take his place. The guy collects his monthly allowee. The school is happy to have an experienced hand while he was happy to have time for the filling station. He wants to build another mega filling station at Maitama area. His father has land over there. They were working on the plans.

“My father wants me to attend London Business School for an MBA so I can take over the business at age 25. I told him the Masters’ was a good idea but I wanted to have a better grip of the business before I leave. He declined”

Farida was surprised. She asked him, “You built a mega filling station. You are building another one, why then are you saying you don’t have a grip of the business?”

“My father’s words exactly. But I will be taking over at such a young age. Younger than my brothers. I am the first person with a first class in my family. The celebration was huge. I think it’s his motivation. My father has also gone into importation of petroleum products. He has done it twice now and he made huge profits. The filling station will have products from our tank farm. My father’s business mind is not like mine. I need him around to direct me. He told me not to count on that. He is already 70 so his time is short. I am understudying him. If you think I should go, then I will”

‘I think you should. You have done well for yourself so far. You should be proud of all you have achieved. I am sure you are your father’s favourite right now”

“Yes I am. He calls me every morning. When he calls, he would ask, “I hope I am not disturbing anything” or he will say “Can we talk?” I keep wondering why he would ask that”

Monica laughed at how naïve he was pretending to be. “He is just asking if you are with someone so he can call back”

“If I am with someone? Early in the morning? Someone like who?”

“Someone like your girlfriend who spent the night”

‘But I don’t have a girlfriend and he knows”

“Are you impotent?”

“Noooo”

“So, you would have some flings. Do you discuss business in front of flings?” Monica asked.

“Can we drop this discussion please?” Farida appealed.

“What’s your problem. It is a natural human reaction. Same way we have urge for food, for water that’s how we have urge for sex. But you won’t agree with me”

“You know I don’t. And it is not something you should even discuss openly” Farida replied Monica.

“Let’s deviate from that, how is your boyfriend? Wale asked Farida.

“I don’t have a boyfriend”

“What of the guy that won’t let me talk to you during the convocation? The guy with the gift?” Wale emphasized.

Monica was confused. “What guy was that?” she asked Farida.

“It was Sam” Farida replied.

“Sam gave you a gift? What gift was that? What for?”

“Graduation gift. It was a bracelet. I must have forgotten to mention it. I left it with maami for safekeeping”

“Sam gave you a gift? Why would he give you a gift? Is there something going on I don’t know about?” Monica was obviously troubled.

“Monica, it escaped me that day. I gave it to maami and left it with her. Didn’t remember it until Wale mentioned it now. We have been together so you know after that incident, I have been careful with Sam. Nothing is going on”

“I hope so. Sam is not someone you should get involved with. He is a heartbreaker. Don’t make that mistake”

“I have heard you. Thanks Wale” Farida sarcastically said.

“I thought both of you were an item. I apologise. How do I make this up to you?” Wale asked Farida.

Monica replied, “Forget about it. Do you have any friends in Abuja I can hang with? Abuja has been boring for me. What we have here are married men claiming to be single. Although I can’t live here; I prefer Lagos but business here is also good”

“I prefer Lagos too. The babes here are only after money. I’ve tried dating but if money is not involved then you are wasting your time. I seek companionship the girls have other ideas. I’m back to being a loner”

“So, what do you do after work?” Monica asked.

“Nothing. I just go out with some colleagues. One of them showed me this joint. I visit family and just basically create my own fun”

“You haven’t explored this town? Since three of us are in the same boat why don’t we explore the town together? Let’s go clubbing, attend parties, go to joints. Let’s have a wild time. This is NYSC for God’s sake” Monica suggested.

“That will be nice. I am in. What about you Farida?”

“You both know I am not cut out for this your idea of fun. I will like to be exempted” Farida replied.

“Suit yourself” Monica told her. She turned to Wale, “Where can we go tonight? I feel like drinking and dancing. I need to let loose”

Farida wondered what was wrong with Monica. Was she throwing herself at Wale? Why would she do that? She had seen Monica with guys while in school but she felt they were just friends. In final year, she was very focused and the guys reduced. Farida had heard from a grapevine of her sexual escapades under Wura’s influence. She believed Monica had gotten over that phase. Why was she graving that lifestyle now? What was the fun in it?

They resolved to drop Farida at home while both of them paint the town red. Farida felt betrayed by Monica. Why would she drop her and head out with Wale? She prepared for bed but found it difficult to sleep. She watched television for some time but sleep eluded her. She decided to do some reading. When she checked the time again while reading, it was almost midnight and Monica wasn’t back. She called her number but she didn’t pick up. She called severally but there was no answer. Then she dug out Wale’s complimentary card and called him. He didn’t pick up too. What was going on? She hoped Monica was safe. After a while she went back to bed. She tossed and turned on the bed but couldn’t sleep. Her mind was wondering. What could have happened? She turned on the television to get distracted but it didn’t hold her attention for long. After a long struggle, she drifted into sleep.

Monica came in at 2am in the morning. She had gone clubbing with Wale and they had some fun together. The fun was shortlived when all he wanted to talk about was Farida. Why did all the guys want Farida? Even her brother was hiding to give Farida gifts. She never thought she would be jealous of Farida but hearing she got a bracelet from Sam and she didn’t get anything ticked her off. Farida betrayed her by not telling her immediately. Now, she was with a cute guy and he is talking about someone who didn’t want him. She left Wale and went to have fun. He was not good company after all. When she told him. He tried to make adjustments. She got drunk and guys tried to take advantage of her which didn’t go down well with Wale. He took her to the car to sleep off the intoxication. She woke up with a banging headache and he brought her home. He was such a gentleman. He didn’t take advantage of her.

She saw Farida had called her severally and not too long before she came back. Farida was the cause of her drunkenness. When she called Wale, Monica stopped him from answering the call.

“You are upset with Farida”

‘Yes, I am”

“Because of your brother?”

“Yeah. She should have told me. What type of story did she spin about forgetting? How can you forget something as important as that?”

“The Farida I know doesn’t lie. Why not give her the benefit of the doubt?”

“You like Farida. After all these years, you still look out for her”

“In all honesty, I do. I have been caught in her web. Do you know you are the only other girl I struck a good conversation with while on campus? You sounded like Farida that was why”

“Are you sure you are not obsessed with her?”

“Not in a bad way. I like her. I enjoy her company especially when she loosens up. She is someone people will just fall for. Most times they are attracted to her mind without knowing it”

“So, there is no sexual undertone to your likeness?”

“Are you asking if I am attracted to her? Of course, but if I was to choose between sex and friendship? I will choose friendship because it will last longer”

“You are weird. Anyway, Farida hates guys. All of you are just wasting your time”

“Why would you say that?”

“She’s a virgin. She has never been with a guy. I think she’s saving it for the wedding night so it will be a gift to her husband. She will serve it to him on a platter of gold” she laughed hysterically as she envisioned it.

“I know she has never had a boyfriend. I think she is too focused on building herself up than having a relationship. You are a good friend to her; she trusts you. Stand by her the way she would stand by you.”

“You are still looking out for her. You must feel something special for her”

“I will always look out for her. She is special. I owe my transformation to her. And she must not know anything. Remember”

Monica pondered on his words as she came down from his car. She still felt bitter but she wondered at such loyalty Wale displayed to someone who couldn’t stand being with him. It was as though he understood her. He knew her well and he liked everything about her. Imagine him saying Farida does not lie. That’s blind trust. She has never had that from anyone before. Farida gets that all the time.

FARIDA Episode 27 by Oge’s Stories

Farida was on the bed asleep with her phone in her hand. It was evident she waited up for her. Monica quietly took a shower and then took to her bed. She still had a hangover. She closed her eyes and before she drifted off her last thought was, “Will I ever find someone to love me the way people love Farida? Will a guy be as loyal to me as Wale?”

The next morning, Farida woke up to find Monica in bed. She was glad she came back safe and sound. She picked her phone to charge when she noticed she had a message. It was from Wale,

“Hey, I saw your missed calls. It was loud at the club and I had to monitor Monica. I believe you were calling to check on her. You must have seen her by now. Take care.”

She didn’t respond. She charged her phone and Monica’s. She went to get ready for work. She made the food they would take to work. As she worked, she thought about Monica and Sam. Why was Monica upset about the bracelet? It actually skipped her mind as it was not the highlight of the day. It was because of Monica she refused to give Sam an answer. Sam had been pushing for dinner but she refused knowing Monica will not be happy about it. So, why was she acting up because of the bracelet? She should know her by now.

When she was ready, she woke Monica up.

“You must have had a wild night. There is work today. I think you should wake up and prepare”

“I have a bad headache. Go to work, I will report sick”

“You have a hangover; take coffee and you will feel better. Go to work”

“Why are you acting all righteous? Leave me alone and go. I will decide what to do”

“Why are you talking like this? What is wrong?”

“You don’t know who loves and values you when you see him. You are going after someone who will use and dump you. You are no different from the others. Please leave me alone, I have a headache”

Farida was running late for work as it was. She had a penchant for being on time. She left for work while still pondering. She tried to communicate with Monica all through the day but she didn’t pick up her calls. She called Wale. She asked what happened the night before and Wale said nothing happened. Monica just wanted to have fun and they did. She had a little too much to drink but she was fine.

“Her attitude towards me has changed and I blame it on you. Why did you talk about her brother in her presence?”

“I don’t think I have any blame here. You should have told your best friend what happened between you and her brother. It escaped you, I agree and I believe you but you should expect her to be hurt. It will pass after a few days. Just let her be”

“I am not used to this behaviour from her and I really don’t know how to handle it. She is angry at me; for what? I haven’t worn the bracelet. I forgot about it. Why is she making me feel like I did something extremely dreadful?”

“She thinks you are dating her brother. That’s the problem”

“Why would I date Sam when she doesn’t want me to?”

“That’s what both of you will iron out when the time is right”

“Hmmmm. She is the only friend I have here. I am surviving on her goodwill. I don’t want to be stranded. She is being irrational; she can ask me to leave. Where would I go?”

“You will never be stranded while I am alive. She won’t even do that, she likes you. Try this strategy of just ignoring her tantrums completely since your conscience is clear and watch her come back to you. Then, do not allow her dictate to you whom you can have a relationship with; it is entirely your personal business. Think about it”

“I advise her on other things and she accepts that’s why I listen to her when she talks about things she is more knowledgeable about. She knows her brother better.”

“Do you like her brother?”

“He is ok as a friend and nothing more”

“Do you find him attractive?”

“He is attractive physically. You saw him. I would have gotten to know him more but for Monica to say some really terrible things about her brother, I had to be cautious. He likes most of the things I like. I love nature and he does too. He studied Economics just like I did. But he seems to be daring and I can’t take certain risks”

“Maybe you should get to know him yourself if you like him”

“I didn’t say I liked him; we just have some things in common”

“But he is a heart breaker. He has left his trail of broken hearts. Do you want to be one of them? Farida, you can do better. It’s about time you have some experience in terms of relationship. You need to understand guys and how they think. You know what Monica’s brother wants. Get someone who will respect you and your values”

Farida was silent. He was right about everything. She needed to talk to her mother about the issues. She valued her friendship with Monica and wouldn’t want anything to spoil it. If Sam was a problem then she would tell her anything he says or does.

“Do you know what, both you and Monica need to start dating. I will come with a few eligible bachelors who are responsible. You can have your pick from there. I am sure you will like one of them. Let me know your spec, what do you like?”

“I just want someone who will love and respect me. He shares the same values with me. He has to have money, a big house, cars …..”

“Do you want to marry an older guy or be a second wife? No young guy now would have all you are asking for. You will look like a gold digger. You, Farida, may have all these things you have pointed out before the guy with the way you pursue money. Why not take it a step at a time? Meet the guy and both of you work together at achieving something”

“Ok. Monica will be happy to hear I am ready to date”

“She will be. Saturday evening, there is a party by the poolside of a hotel. Most of my guys will be there. It is a good opportunity without being obvious. I will let you know what I know about each of the guys that approach you”

“That’s fine. Monica would be glad to attend. I must have bored her. I will do it if it will make her happy”

Their conversation lightened her mood, as the anxiety she had earlier began to evaporate. Twenty minutes of relaxation and her mood was spoilt again. She received a call from a number not on her phone contact, as she picked it up, she heard

“Are you a child? Can’t you keep a secret? Why did you tell Monica about the bracelet? It was between both of us. Why did you have to?”

“Unfortunately, other people saw you give it to me and they thought we were an item. They mentioned it in the presence of Monica. And by the way, if it had not skipped my memory, I would have told her after you gave me. She’s upset with me for not telling. Now you are also upset she knows. I don’t know what you both want. Please sort yourselves out. I am not interested in sibling rivalry and it shouldn’t be over me”

“Is this your defence? I don’t even know what I am doing talking to you. Grow up! Monica shouldn’t know everything. There are many things she does you don’t know about. You should keep our relationship a secret. You don’t have……”

“Hold it. Which relationship? We don’t have a relationship. Is it my accepting the bracelet that is causing the confusion for you? I can return it. Apart from when you wore it on my wrist, I haven’t worn it again. I am not interested in a relationship with you. Bye.” And Farida ended the call.

When she got back home, she was angry. Why did Monica have to call Sam about it? Both siblings were immature and she didn’t want to be caught in their middle.

When she got back from work, she didn’t say a word to Monica who was lying on the couch in the small parlour. She went to the room to have a shower and change then she went to get something to eat. She completely ignored a shocked Monica and went back into room.

This continued for two days.Monica could no longer bear it so she reached out to her. She was shocked at Farida’s response.

“I can’t put up with your attitude anymore. I apologized for not telling you about the bracelet. I honestly forgot. You then confronted Sam about it making me look like a child. Monica, we will be 22 soon, why can’t we act maturely? I am not dating or hiding to date Sam. Why you had to confront him about it is what I don’t understand. I am not an object both siblings are fighting for. Sam and I have a lot in common which could have made us friends but I didn’t explore that possibility because it will hurt you. Haven’t I been fair enough?”

Monica looked at Farida. This was strange; Farida never spoke to her as though she was scolding her before. This must have really hurt her. She apologized for her behavior and asked her to also forgive her.

“I am ready to compromise a bit for you. Wale has invited us to a poolside party on Saturday and I have accepted to attend with you. He has promised me we will meet responsible guys there. Any guy who isn’t worth our time; he will point out to us”

“We? He wants to introduce you to guys? Is Wale ok?”

“Yes. Why did you ask if Wale was ok?”

“Are you blind? Wale likes you”

“He likes me but not in the way you are envisaging. We are friends and will always be”

“You are both blind and funny. It’s him I blame”

“Whatever!”

They went back to being close friends. Farida had learnt a lesson; she could stand up for herself even with close friends. She didn’t have to hurt anyone’s feelings in the process and she didn’t have to get hurt herself. She had caged Monica and that wasn’t being a good friend. She would live a little but within safe boundaries. Her mother had also asked her if she was seeing anybody. There seemed to be pressure on her to date but she wanted a relationship that would lead to marriage. Her mother told her it was while relating with the person she would know whether she could spend the rest of her life with him or not. She will give it her best shot.

Monica started canvassing for their outfits for the party. Their consignment had just arrived so Monica was searching for what they would wear. Farida had planned to wear jeans trousers and a tshirt but Monica wouldn’t hear of it. She selected their outfits and left them at the boutique.

Before Wale arrived to pick them up, Monica got dressed for her customers to see her outfit. She wore a pair of multi colored shorts and paired them with a white see through lacy top. She had on flat slip on. She looked cute. Farida refused to wear what Monica picked for her. Monica convinced her to showcase it to the customers before trying something else. The customer loved her short denim dungarees which she wore with a white bodysuit. She wore a slip on with raffia sole. When she stepped out, everyone wanted the outfit. She went back in and changed into a white and black stripped short still paired with the bodysuit. Lastly, she wore a brown leather skirt that was a bit above the knees, an ivory colored tank top and a white shirt which was left open and tied around waist. She paired them with a pair of low calf and low heel boots. The leather skirts in the store finished.

‘I liked the dungarees better if you ask me” Wale announced loudly. That was when they noticed he was in the room. Farida wished the ground would open and swallow her. The dungarees were quite short for her and not for the view of a guy.

“She will never agree to wear them”, Monica mentioned as she welcomed Wale. “This is too serious for where we are heading to. Wear the shorts or ……”

“I will choose what to wear. You don’t have my height so we can’t dress alike” Farida went in and wore the lavender almost off the shoulder straight cotton gown which was above the knee paired with black slip on she had selected. The gown just hugged her hips a bit. She packed up her hair into a bun and wore stud earrings.

Wale smiled when she stepped in. “I like this. You look effortlessly hot”

“I think I should change then, that wasn’t the idea” Farida replied.

“You look hot in whatever you wear. I love the colour against your skin. You have good eyes for fashion” Wale replied.

They left as customers were looking at the different colours of the dress Farida wore.

FARIDA Episode 28 by Oge’s Stories

Wale dove them to a luxury hotel. They needed a pass to get to the swimming pool which Wale showed them. It was a bit dark by the time they walked to the pool area. Wale introduced them to the celebrant and they found a place to sit. There was music, barbecue on one side of the pool. Buffet table arranged on another side. The was also a bar. Wale went to get them drinks. The place was a bit scanty but Wale knew before long it will be filled up. They were talking and got carried away with their discussion and didn’t realise when the place got filled up. It was noisy entrants that attracted their attention. Drinks had started moving around. Farida was shocked with the dressing of some of the girls that just came in. One wore a short stretching skirt that was like a second skin. She dared not bend down. Some had their boobs pouring out of their tops. Their makeup was so heavy and some looked wild.

“They must have got them a higher institution to fill up the party. There are still responsible girls here just like you. My guys are around now. They are coming over, I will make the introductions”

A group fo guys came over and introductions were made. They were all young and good looking. The finest guy amongst them recognized Monica. He mentioned her father’s name and company. Apparently, they went to the same primary school but he was two years ahead. They hit it off. Several of the other guys tried to hit on Farida but she wasn’t feeling any of them. She sat with Wale all through not giving audience to any other person. Wale asked her if she would like to dance, she declined. He asked her if he could ask someone else to dance with him, she agreed. He left her to dance with a girl he met at the bar. She so easily agreed and they went to the dance floor.

A guy, who had been waiting for a chance to catch her alone, walked up to Farida and asked if he could have a seat. She was alone as Monica and her friend had moved to another table. She allowed him sit down. He introduced himself as Shehu. He was a Fulani guy from Kebbi state. His family had been into mining. From every indication he was from a well to do home like most of them there. He was interesting to talk to. They spoke for hours without taking a break. He told her about himself. He was a graduate of Chemical Engineering from a foreign university and works with NNPC. Farida told him she was serving. He asked if she would like to work with NNPC. She hadn’t made up her mind what she wanted to do but she knew she didn’t want to live in Abuja. He told her he could help her get a job with Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) and get her posted to Lagos. His only problem was how he could see her often with the distance. She laughed as though it was a joke. He let it slide. They talked about other things. They were together when Wale returned with the lady from the bar. He excused them and was surprised when Farida did not object. She seemed to be having a good time. She brought out her phone to exchange numbers with Shehu. He was taken aback by the type of phone she was using. Monica had also made fun of her concerning her phone but she refused to change it. Shehu couldn’t believe that a girl this beautiful would not be conscious of her gadgets.

At almost midnight, the three couples decided to call it a night. Monica left with Francis. He would drop her home. Farida wanted to leave with Wale but Shehu insisted he would drop her off. She agreed while Wale left with the lady at the bar.

On the ride home, Shehu asked if he could take her out the next day. She wanted to decline but she decided to give it a try. She had a nice time with him that night. They stayed in the car for another hour before he saw her to her door.

Monica was inside the house when she came in. She was on the phone. Apparently, she was on the phone with Francis. Farida left her to take a shower. By the time she came out, her phone was ringing. She picked it up.

“You had fun tonight, right?” Wale asked.

Farida smiled on the other end. “Yeah, I did. It was fun”

“And you like him? Yeah?”

“I just met him today”

“And you spent an hour with him in the car”

Farida was shocked. “How did you know that?”

“Did you think I would let him take you home without ensuring he does that? I just dropped off the lady with me. I am heading home”

“That was nice. You actually followed us? Wale, you are a very good friend”

“So are you. Enjoy the rest of your night. Tell Monica I said hi. Hope she’s home too”

“Yes, she is. Good night”

“Good night”

Wale was glad she had fun. He felt a sting of jealous when she opted to be with Shehu over him. He knew Shehu; he was a friend to one of his friends. He was quiet; somewhat like Farida. They were all shocked he approached her. But there was a comment one of them made. They called him a sharpshooter. That wasn’t a positive compliment. Wale wasn’t worried. Farida needed the experience so she would appreciate better. He wasn’t in a hurry. He will always be there for her.

Monica got off the phone excited. “He wants to take me out tomorrow”

“That’s nice”

“I saw you with that guy. I didn’t see him before. Fulani guy. Very cute. Has your shape of nose”

“Yeah”

“You took too long to come back”

“Did I? I’m sleepy”

“You! Good night”

Farida went over the evening in her mind before she fell asleep. She had fun talking with Shehu. She didn’t mind meeting him again. She realized she was attracted to intelligent conversations. She liked guys who could keep up conversation about anything. Shehu was cool but she never saw herself being with a very fair guy. She decided to keep an open mind and get to know him. Her phone buzzed and she checked it. It was a text from Shehu, “In bed now. Thinking about you. Good night”. Farida smiled. He was too obvious but she liked it.

Monica made a fuss about what Farida will wear for the date. She insisted she wore something that will show her figure.

‘I am not selling my body neither am I putting it on display. He is a Muslim just like me so I have to be modest in my dressing”

“Why don’t you wear a kaftan and hijab so he will know you are a good non-practising Muslim? My friend, the guy saw you in something lovely yesterday and came for you. Don’t dress to give an impression; dress to attract. Wear a dress that can be both corporate and casual. Wear this dress, she fished out a yellow lace body hugging dress and gave her a black leather jacket she could wear with it. The dress was just slightly above her knees but the dress was sleeveless. Farida tried it on and loved her look. The jacket hid her figure. She wore low heels black shoes with them. Monica gave her bangles and a long chain to wear. Then she gave her a big faced wristwatch. The accessories weren’t Farida’s style. She selected two simple gold and silver tone bangles, she took off the long chain and the wrist watch and in it’s place wore a simple black leather wristwatch and dropping earrings. The next problem was her hair. She was used to just packing it up but Monica had told her she had to do something different to it. She had to hot tong the hair and made it into a centre bob. She wore powder, lip stick and eye pencil. That was all.

Farida asked Shehu to pick her up at the boutique. When he arrived, she was ready. He was very impressed with what he saw. He took her to a classy Chinese restaurant. She allowed him order the food and they talked for hours. He wanted to know more about her. She told him everything.

“So, who is responsible for your accommodation in that place?”

“My friend’s father owns the guest house so we are staying there for free”

“I was wondering how you could afford to pay for such a place”.

“I can’t afford it”.

“That’s why you need a good job. But I would like you to remain here in Abuja”.

“No. I don’t like Abuja. Monica dislikes it too. So where would I reside if she decides to leave?”

“I will get you a very comfortable place. I can move you there right away if you want. You will not lose anything”

“Really? That’s so nice but no thank you. I will be relocating back to Lagos. I have to be there for my mother and brothers. I have received invitation for job interviews already. I am writing some examinations after my service year”

“We will be taking turns to visit each other then”

“It depends on where this leads”

“I know where it is leading. I am already smitten by you”

“I am from a very poor family. I went to school on scholarship. I don’t have money. Are you sure you want to continue with me?”

“I want to continue with you. You are beautiful, intelligent and cultured; what more do I want?”

“But, a young guy like you can not be single. You are cute so you must have a girlfriend or girls can never be in short supply for you. So, who are you dating?”

“You are very smart. I had a girlfriend; she is not in Nigeria right now and we have recently parted ways as she said she wants to live abroad. Now, I have only you. What of you? Should I be scared?”

“I don’t have a boyfriend”.

“What of the guy with you at the party? Are you guys just friends or friends with benefits?”

“What are friends with benefits?” Farida genuinely asked.

“Friends that have sex without romantic involvement or relationship. Is that what you guys have?”

Farida was disgusted, “Why would you think that? Why would I be involved in that?”

“Well I saw the way he was with you that day. I was surprised when he went to be with the other lady”

“No, we are just friends. I haven’t been going out so he dragged me out with my friend Monica. He just wanted me to have some fun”

“Ok”.

After dinner, he drove her home. They sat in the car again for hours talking. He reached to the back of the car and gave her something in a nylon. When she brought out the content, it was a brand new phone; the latest Nokia phone.

“Why did you get me this?”

“I saw your phone and I didn’t like it”

“But I like it. It performs the same function as every other phone so why get me a new phone?”

“You need to move with the times and for someone in the fashion industry, a phone is a fashion and status statement. You can have the other phone as a spare but this one will be your main phone”

Farida would have rejected it but instead she said “thank you, that was thoughtful of you”. She realized he thought about her and her business when he made this decision. She felt good. This was the first relationship she said yes to and she had no idea the expectations from her.

Monica and Francis became serious. Francis was someone who understood Monica and he treated her like a queen. Within a month, Monica was hardly ever in the house. She went to work from Francis’ place. She would bribe Farida to cook different soups for her and she would take them to Francis’ house. Farida liked Francis although they hardly hung out together. Monica seemed so much in love and Francis treated her like a queen. She decided to stay back in Abuja while Farida returned to Lagos after their service year as she was retained by CBN.

Farida and Shehu were getting to know each other. They met mostly at the weekends on Farida’s insistence. A month into the relationship, he invited her to his house. She declined. Three weeks later, he stylishly drove her to his house. He lived in a very posh estate. There were different houses when they entered the gate. He drove to the semi detached duplex on the right. He asked her in. That was how he deceived her into coming home with him on the pretext he left a very vital document at home. He lived alone in the beautiful duplex. She sat in the sitting room while a steward came to entertain her. Shehu turned on the television for her to watch and went upstairs for a while. She was engrossed in the movie and didn’t hear him come down until he sat beside her. After the movie, they had dinner which was very nice. They went back to the sitting room. As they sat down watching another movie, Shehu took Farida’s hand in his. He gently caressed her fingers. He was no longer interested in the movie. Farida was becoming uncomfortable. He pulled her close to him and rested her head on his chest. She tried to pull away but he whispered to her, “relax”. After a while, he released her as she was stiff in his hands. The next thing, he tried to kiss her. She jumped up and asked to go.

“What is wrong with you? Why are you acting up? We like each other, what more is remaining?”

“That I like you doesn’t mean I will allow you defile me. Why would you want to kiss me?”

“We are in a relationship. I am in love with you. My body can’t resist you any longer. Each time we meet, it reacts. Why are you acting like you don’t understand? I am sure your body craves for me too. Let’s do this thing, two months is long enough to get to know each other”

“Now I understand why you brought me here. Your plan was to have sex with me by any means possible. I am leaving” Monica walked to the door while trying to fish out her phone. He stopped her. She stopped and made a call. She gave the person the name of the estate and the description of Shehu’s house.

Shehu was disappointed at her behavior. He had made it clear he was interested in her so why was she finding it difficult for them to have some intimacy? He wouldn’t have gone all the way if she had stopped him but making it sound like he wanted to take advantage of her was wrong. He tried to convince her to have a seat let them talk about the issue but she was hell bent of leaving in her current state.

“Farida, I love you and I would never harm you. Just saying no was enough for me, I wasn’t going to go further if you had explained to me you were not ready yet. Why are you behaving like we are enemies?”

Farida did not reply him. She stood by the door waiting. Finally, Wale arrived. Shehu was surprised he was the one she called. Wale came into the house and asked what happened. Farida said she just wanted to leave but Shehu wouldn’t allow her. She walked out of the house. Wale asked Shehu what transpired. By the time he finished explaining, Wale asked him, “So, for two months, you never discussed sex with her or your expectations?”

“I didn’t. I just waited for her to get used to being with me. I thought she was just shy as she always avoided such discussions. I just tried to kiss her and she’s reacting like this. What’s the problem?”

Wale knew this day would come. He didn’t discuss it with Farida directly but he suggested she prepared her for such requests. Now, it had happened and Farida didn’t know how to handle it. He explained to Shehu, “She is not that type of girl. If you are with her with the hope she would have sex with you, then, it’s best I let you know it won’t happen. She is an old-fashioned girl who believes in waiting until she is married to have sex. You will not be able to convince her otherwise”

“You are kidding me right?”

‘I am not. She likes you. If you want to get serious with her, please do, but know she won’t drop it until after you do the needful”

“She is not ready for a relationship. I give up.I don’t know where she thinks this is heading but without tasting it, I am not buying”

“Then it is best you end it because it will not happen. I want to appeal you end it on a gentle and quiet note”

“Are you sure it is not because of you she doesn’t want to get sexually involved with any man? How do you convince me both of you aren’t lovers?”

“I don’t need to convince.Think whatever you like. I am out of here”

#OpraDre FARIDA 26

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